Scientists discover 2 new 'ghost' lineages that contributed DNA to modern humans
Researchers have identified two previously unknown 'ghost' lineages of extinct humans that contributed DNA to modern human genomes. One lineage is found in all present-day people, while the other is a super-archaic group dating back nearly 2 million years.
Why it matters
This discovery provides deeper insight into human evolution and the complex history of interbreeding among ancient hominid species.
A new method of analyzing modern humans' DNA is revealing secrets about our extinct ancestors.
By Charles Q. Choi Edited by Kristina Killgrove , Laura Mondrag n Published 30 July 2026 In News When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here's how it works .
Researchers used a new method to uncover hidden DNA contributions from extinct human groups in modern genomes. (Image credit: Meaghan Marohn, https://meaghanmarohn.wordpress.com/) Copy link Facebook X Reddit Pinterest Flipboard Share this article 0 Join the conversation Follow us Add us as a preferred source on Google Newsletter Subscribe to our newsletter Traces of two "ghost lineages" of extinct human populations lie hidden within our genome, a new study reveals.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in